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Dash Point State Park sits on the eastern shore of Puget Sound, straddling the boundary between the city of Federal Way and unincorporated Pierce County in Washington State. The park protects roughly 400 acres of second-growth Douglas fir and western red cedar forest that tumbles down steep bluffs to a broad, sandy saltwater beach — an unusually accessible stretch of undeveloped shoreline in an otherwise suburban corridor south of Seattle.
The park's dual character — dense woodland trails above and tidal flats below — makes it popular with a wide range of visitors: families seeking an easy beach day, campers wanting a forested setting close to urban amenities, and hikers drawn to the trail network that connects the campground to the waterfront. The beach itself is notably long for a state park in this region, and at low tide the exposed mudflats attract shorebirds and offer good tidepooling.
Dash Point is operated by Washington State Parks. Facilities include two campgrounds (one for standard sites, one for RVs with hookups), restrooms, picnic shelters, and a boat launch. Because it sits within easy reach of Federal Way, Tacoma, and Seattle, it draws steady local use on weekends, so planning ahead — especially for camping reservations — is advisable.
Before You Go
Park Passes
Washington State Parks requires a Discover Pass for vehicle entry on most visits. The pass can be purchased online through the Washington State Parks website, at self-pay stations at the park entrance, or at many sporting goods and outdoor retailers statewide. Verify current pass requirements and pricing at parks.wa.gov before your visit, as fee structures can change.
Camping Reservations
Campsites at Dash Point fill quickly on summer weekends and holiday weekends. Washington State Parks uses an online reservation system; booking several weeks in advance is strongly recommended for May through September visits. Walk-up sites may be available midweek or in the shoulder season, but are not guaranteed.
Weather and Conditions
- The Pacific Northwest marine climate means mild but frequently overcast and wet conditions outside of summer.
- Summer (July–August) offers the most reliable dry weather, but morning fog is common.
- Water temperatures in Puget Sound remain cold year-round; swimming is possible but brief for most people.
- Check Washington State Parks' website or call ahead for trail closures, which can occur after heavy rain due to landslide risk on the bluff slopes.
What to Bring
- Layers — temperatures drop noticeably near the water even on warm days
- Waterproof footwear if visiting in spring, fall, or winter
- Firewood (purchasing locally is encouraged to prevent the spread of invasive pests)
- Any food or supplies you need, as there are no concessions or stores inside the park
Getting There
By Car
Dash Point State Park is located off SW Dash Point Road in Federal Way. From Interstate 5, take the Federal Way exits and follow signs toward Dash Point. The drive from downtown Seattle is roughly 30–40 minutes in normal traffic; from Tacoma, approximately 20–25 minutes. There is a paved parking area near the beach and a separate lot serving the campground. Parking fills quickly on sunny summer weekends — arriving early in the morning is advisable.
By Public Transit
Pierce Transit and King County Metro both serve the Federal Way area, and some routes stop within reasonable walking distance of the park entrance. However, the walk from transit stops to the beach involves a significant elevation change. Verify current routes and schedules at transitgo.org (Pierce Transit) or kingcounty.gov/metro before your trip, as service patterns change periodically.
By Bicycle
The park is accessible by bicycle via local roads, though SW Dash Point Road has limited shoulder in places and significant grade changes. Experienced cyclists comfortable with moderate traffic can reach the park from Federal Way's trail network. Verify current trail connections locally.
Where to Stay
Camping in the Park
Dash Point State Park offers standard tent sites and RV sites with electrical hookups. Restrooms and shower facilities are available in the campground area. All camping is managed through the Washington State Parks reservation system; verify availability and current rates at parks.wa.gov.
Hotels Nearby
Federal Way has a range of chain hotels within a short drive of the park, concentrated near Interstate 5 and the Federal Way city center. Tacoma (approximately 15–20 minutes south) and SeaTac (approximately 15–20 minutes north) offer additional options at various price points. Booking in advance for summer visits is recommended as the broader area serves both leisure travelers and airport traffic for Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
Things to See & Do
Beach and Tidepooling
The park's 3,300-foot-long saltwater beach is its signature attraction. At low tide, the exposed mudflats and rocky areas near the water reveal barnacles, mussels, hermit crabs, and small fish in tidal pools. Checking a local tide chart before visiting enhances the tidepooling experience significantly — apps and websites such as NOAA Tides & Currents provide accurate predictions for the area.
Hiking and Trails
Approximately 11 miles of trails wind through the forested upland sections of the park. Routes vary from easy, relatively flat paths along the beach level to steeper trails that climb through the bluffs. The trail network also connects with Dash Point County Park to the north, extending hiking options. Trails can be muddy and slick after rain; sturdy footwear is recommended year-round.
Camping
Overnight camping is a primary draw. The forested campground provides a genuine sense of seclusion despite the park's suburban setting. Evening campfires, if permitted under current fire-danger conditions, are a classic part of the experience. Confirm current fire regulations with Washington State Parks before your visit, as burn bans are common during dry summer periods.
Fishing and Crabbing
The beach and pier area see seasonal fishing and crabbing activity. A valid Washington State fishing or shellfish license is required; check the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (wdfw.wa.gov) for current regulations, seasons, and any health advisories related to shellfish harvesting before collecting anything.
Wildlife Watching
The park's bluff-top forest and shoreline attract a variety of birds, including great blue herons, bald eagles, surf scoters, and migratory shorebirds. Harbor seals occasionally haul out on the beach or are visible just offshore.
Food & Drink
There are no food vendors or concession stands inside Dash Point State Park, so visitors should plan accordingly. Packing a picnic is a straightforward and practical option — the park has picnic tables near the beach and in forested areas. A portable cooler and a camp stove (used only in designated areas and subject to fire-ban restrictions) work well for camping stays.
Federal Way's commercial corridors along Pacific Highway South and near the Federal Way Transit Center offer a wide range of dining options, from fast food and casual chains to independent restaurants serving various cuisines. The Tacoma waterfront, roughly 20 minutes south, adds further options including seafood restaurants with Puget Sound views. Stock up on groceries at one of several supermarkets in Federal Way before entering the park.
Practical Information
Key Contacts
- Washington State Parks (general information): parks.wa.gov — verify for current hours, fees, and conditions
- Camping reservations: Washington State Parks' online reservation portal (linked from parks.wa.gov)
- Emergency: 911
- Non-emergency park issues: Contact Washington State Parks customer service; number listed on their official website
Accessibility
The beach-level picnic area and some restroom facilities have accessibility features. The beach itself involves some soft sand and uneven terrain. The bluff trails are not generally suitable for wheelchair users. Confirm current accessibility conditions directly with Washington State Parks before visiting if this is a consideration.
Cell Coverage
Cell service is generally adequate in the parking and beach areas given proximity to Federal Way's infrastructure, but may be limited on some of the forested upland trails.
Leave No Trace
Dash Point is a high-use park near a major metropolitan area. Packing out all trash, keeping dogs on leash (required in Washington State Parks), and staying on designated trails — especially on the erosion-prone bluffs — help protect the park for future visitors.
Safety
The bluffs at Dash Point are composed of glacial sediment that is susceptible to erosion and occasional landslides, particularly during or after heavy rain. Stay on marked trails and do not approach or stand at the edge of the bluffs. Warning signs are posted in high-risk areas.
Puget Sound's cold water temperatures present a drowning risk even for strong swimmers. Rip currents are less common here than on ocean beaches, but cold-water shock is a real hazard. Children should be closely supervised near the water at all times. There are no lifeguards on duty.
The park's forested areas are habitat for wildlife including black bears on rare occasions, though sightings are uncommon this close to developed areas. Standard precautions — storing food securely in your vehicle or a bear canister while camping — are good practice. Report any wildlife conflicts to park staff.
